Greetings! If you find yourself in a French-speaking country or engaging with French speakers, it’s important to know how to express time using AM and PM, also known as ante meridiem and post meridiem. In this guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways to say AM and PM in French. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say AM and PM
In formal situations, such as business meetings, official events, or talking to strangers, it’s important to use polite and respectful language. Here are some phrases you can use to express AM and PM formally:
1. AM – Ante Meridiem
The formal way to say AM in French is “du matin.” For example: 8 AM would be “huit heures du matin.”
Alternative formal expressions for AM include “de la matinée” and “de matin.”
2. PM – Post Meridiem
The formal term for PM in French is “de l’après-midi.” For instance, 3 PM would be “trois heures de l’après-midi.”
Additionally, you can use “du soir” to refer to PM in a formal setting.
Informal Ways to Say AM and PM
Informal situations, such as casual conversations with friends or family, allow for a more relaxed tone. Here’s how you can informally express AM and PM in French:
1. AM – Ante Meridiem
The most common way to say AM informally is “du mat’.” So, 8 AM would be “huit heures du mat’.”
You can also use “du matin” in an informal setting, similar to the formal expression.
2. PM – Post Meridiem
Informally, PM can be expressed as “de l’aprem.” For example, 3 PM would be “trois heures de l’aprem.”
In addition, “du soir” can also be used as an informal way to refer to PM.
Tips for Remembering Formal and Informal Expressions
Now that we’ve covered the formal and informal ways to say AM and PM in French, here are a few tips to help you remember them:
- Practice: The more you use these expressions in conversations or when speaking to yourself, the better you’ll remember them. Practice goes a long way!
- Pay attention to context: Consider the situation and determine whether formal or informal language is appropriate. Using the wrong expression can sound odd or disrespectful.
- Listen to native speakers: Watch French movies, listen to French songs, or engage with French-speaking friends to expose yourself to the language. This will help you grasp the nuances of formal and informal expressions.
- Make associations: If needed, create mental associations between the French expressions and their English equivalents to help you remember them more easily.
Remember, learning a language is a journey, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Embrace the process, stay curious, and keep practicing.
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to say AM and PM in French in both formal and informal situations. With these phrases in your linguistic arsenal, you’ll be able to express time confidently and proficiently. Bonne chance!
